Sesame Seed Boom: Pakistan’s Exports to China Jump 180%
Pakistan’s sesame seed exports to China recorded a dramatic rise of nearly 180% in the first two months of 2025, signalling deepening agricultural trade ties and rising demand for Pakistani produce. According to Ghulam Qadir, Trade and Investment Counsellor at Pakistan’s Embassy in Beijing, the country exported 22,740.445 metric tons of sesame seeds worth $28.27 million during January and February 2025. This marks a significant increase from the 5,997.744 metric tons valued at $10.10 million exported during the same period in 2024.
This upward trajectory showcases Pakistan’s growing foothold in China’s sesame seed market—bolstered by enhanced trade mechanisms, improved agricultural practices, and a favourable climate for sesame cultivation. As China’s food processing and consumer goods industries expand, the demand for high-quality sesame products continues to grow.
Ghulam Qadir noted that Pakistan has become one of the leading exporters of sesame seeds to China, benefiting from ongoing economic collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Rakesh Pal, a major exporter to China, attributed this success to Pakistan’s efforts in meeting global quality benchmarks and expanding access to the Chinese market.
Market analysts anticipate continued growth in sesame exports, driven by rising consumption of sesame oil, snacks, and other sesame-based products. The trade surge aligns with Pakistan’s broader ambitions to capitalise on China’s vast agri-import potential, opening new avenues for crops like mangoes and other high-value agricultural goods.
As China remains the world’s largest importer of sesame seeds, Pakistan’s momentum in this sector not only boosts its export portfolio but also provides significant opportunities for local farmers, agribusinesses, and trade stakeholders.